Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka has withdrawn from Switzerland’s national team squad amid scrutiny over his admission that he obtained a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic.

The experienced midfielder, who has become an important figure for both Sunderland and the Swiss national team, will not take part in the current international camp as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the certificate.

The decision comes after Xhaka acknowledged that he obtained a false vaccination certificate in 2022, when he was playing for Arsenal in the English Premier League. The Swiss international has described the decision as a mistake and has apologised for his actions.

Xhaka Admits Obtaining Fake COVID-19 Certificate

According to reports, Xhaka has admitted that he obtained a fake COVID-19 vaccination certificate during the pandemic.

At the time, COVID-19 vaccination certificates were used in Switzerland and other European countries to demonstrate vaccination or compliance with health regulations and, in certain circumstances, to gain access to venues and services.

Xhaka has reportedly explained that he had concerns and fears surrounding COVID-19 vaccination at the time. However, he has acknowledged that obtaining a false certificate was the wrong decision.

The midfielder has apologised and indicated that he is prepared to cooperate with the relevant authorities as they examine the matter.

His admission has now resulted in renewed scrutiny, several years after the alleged conduct took place.

Switzerland Squad Decision

The Swiss Football Association confirmed that Xhaka would not join the national team’s current gathering.

The decision was made jointly by Xhaka and the Swiss Football Association while the situation is being examined.

Xhaka has been a central figure in Swiss football for many years. He is Switzerland’s record appearance holder, having represented the national team more than 150 times.

His absence therefore represents a notable change for the Swiss side, particularly because of his leadership experience and role as captain.

The Swiss Football Association has indicated that Xhaka’s situation will be reassessed following the current international period.

This means his withdrawal does not, at this stage, necessarily represent a permanent separation from the national team.

Swiss Authorities Investigating

The matter has also attracted the attention of Swiss law enforcement authorities.

The Lucerne public prosecutor’s office is investigating whether the circumstances surrounding the alleged false COVID-19 certificate could amount to a criminal offence.

Potential legal questions include the acquisition or use of false certification and possible document-related offences.

Xhaka is expected to be questioned by authorities as part of the investigation.

It is important to note that an investigation does not establish criminal guilt. Xhaka remains entitled to the presumption of innocence while the authorities determine the facts and whether any offence was committed.

The investigation could ultimately determine whether further legal action is appropriate.

A Significant Development for Sunderland and Switzerland

The development comes at a significant point in Xhaka’s career.

After years in the Premier League and a spell with Bayer Leverkusen, the midfielder moved to Sunderland and took on the responsibility of captaining the club.

His leadership and experience have made him one of the most prominent figures within the Sunderland squad.

At international level, Xhaka has also played a major role for Switzerland. He has appeared at several major tournaments and has been one of the team’s most recognisable players.

His withdrawal therefore attracts considerable attention beyond the immediate investigation.

For Switzerland, the focus will now turn to preparing for upcoming fixtures without one of the most experienced players in the squad.

Xhaka Says He Will Cooperate

Despite the controversy, Xhaka has indicated that he intends to cooperate with the authorities.

His acknowledgement of the fake certificate and his apology have provided his initial response to the issue, while the legal process will determine the wider consequences.

The midfielder’s decision to step away from the current Switzerland squad also allows the national team to focus on its upcoming matches while the investigation continues.

The Swiss Football Association has not indicated that Xhaka has been permanently removed from international football.

What Happens Next?

The next stage will depend largely on the findings of the Swiss investigation.

Authorities will examine the circumstances in which the certificate was obtained, how it was used and whether the available evidence supports any criminal charges.

Xhaka is expected to provide information to investigators when questioned.

For now, the situation remains under investigation, and no final legal conclusion has been reached.

The Swiss Football Association is also expected to review the situation after the current international window before determining its next steps regarding Xhaka’s involvement with the national team.

For Sunderland supporters, attention will similarly turn to the club and whether the midfielder’s absence from international duty affects his availability or preparation for domestic football.

Xhaka’s case highlights how decisions made during the COVID-19 pandemic can continue to have consequences years later. While the immediate footballing impact is his withdrawal from Switzerland’s squad, the longer-term implications will depend on the outcome of the legal investigation and any subsequent decisions by football authorities.

For the moment, Xhaka remains under investigation rather than convicted of an offence. The Swiss authorities’ findings will determine whether the matter develops into a criminal case and what consequences, if any, follow.

Related: Granit Xhaka, Sunderland, Switzerland national team, COVID-19 certificate, Swiss Football Association, football news